Do you ever feel overwhelmed by all of the things that you need to get done? How do you balance the need to respond to urgent tasks with the need to abide in God’s presence?
Often many people, including Christians, can become too focused on doing things - including acts of service - and lose perspective of what really matters in God’s sight.
If you are struggling to find the right balance between ‘doing’ and ‘being’ in God’s presence, take a few minutes to reflect on the story of Mary and Martha (see Luke 10:38–42).
Mary and Martha were two sisters who had different personalities and priorities. Luke tells us that Martha was busy with the preparations for dinner, while Mary simply sat at the feet of Jesus listening to His every word.
Martha was so frustrated with her sister’s behaviour, that she went to Jesus and demanded He tell Mary to get up and help her.
“Martha, Martha,” the Lord answered, “you are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed. Really, only one. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)
God uniquely equipped each of these sisters with different spiritual gifts. Both Mary and Martha were showing their love to Jesus, but in different ways. They both had good intentions— yet Jesus made it clear that Mary’s desire to be in His presence was the better choice.
I hope you will read the story again and let God speak to you through it.
If you are worrying about things in your life, or if you are tired and stressed from too much doing, remember that God knows everything you are facing, and He is there to lighten your burdens.
God is in control of every situation, and you can depend on Him.
Lord, you often tell me 'Do not fear'. Help me to live in the freedom that comes from simply abiding in you today and every day.
